Decision Making

(According to Dr. Maccaferri, with minor tweaking)

While the following list is accurate when applying to developing library collections, it also applies to the various evaluation techniques that can be applied rather adequately to men.

1. Does the item of interest fall with the scope of what has already been established and decided?

2. If yes, is it of interest to users and do users find it interesting?

3. If yes, consider what the library has already shelved in terms of age and
format, including size.

4. If the item is still viable, consider the cost vs. benefit/value and overall benefit to the user.

5. Consider any special handling issues.

6. What is the source and location of the information you are considering (review.
flyer, friend, etc? [bar?])

7. Will acquiring the item pose problems (mutilation, theft, challenges, overall quality of the libraries well being)?

When making any decision, it's always necessary to take into consideration the users needs by doing a complete assessment of usage patterns and users satisfaction, as well as considering user demand for various services. Remember, "it's not like you have to fit scores of books on the shelf, it's easier to acquire one item at a time."

=)